Urtica urens: Uses, cultivation, properties and benefits in detail

Introduction to Urtica urens: General Characteristics and Distribution

Urtica urensUrtica urens, commonly known as the lesser nettle, flysting nettle, small nettle, or stinging nettle, is an annual plant belonging to the Urticaceae family, widely distributed in temperate zones of Europe, Asia, North America, and other regions. Recognized for its potent stinging properties and its multiple applications, both in natural medicine and in agriculture and cooking, Urtica urens is a species with a fundamental ecological role and an underappreciated potential in modern life.

This plant stands out for its easy identification in both natural and urban environments, demonstrating adaptability to climatic and ecological variations, as well as an extraordinary ability to colonize soils rich in nitrogen and organic matter. It is generally found in orchards, vacant lots, roadsides, and areas subject to human activity, where it can coexist with other nitrophilous species.

Botanical Description of the Lesser Nettle (Urtica urens)

La stinging nettle It is an annual herb that can reach 10 to 60 cm in height, depending on environmental conditions. Its stems are erect, square-sectioned, and generally hollow. The opposite-arranged leaves have an ovate blade with a serrated margin, are 1 to 6 cm long, and have a remarkably long petiole with two stipules at the base.

The most distinctive feature of Urtica urens is the thick, spiky hairs that cover both the leaves and stems. These trichomes contain a stinging liquid composed primarily of formic acid, histamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine, which produces an intense burning sensation and redness when it comes into contact with the skin. When the plant touches the skin, the tips of the hair break, acting like tiny syringes that inject the irritating liquid.

La inflorescence The lesser nettle is unbranched and appears in the leaf axils. Unlike the greater nettle (Urtica dioica), Urtica urens is monoecious, meaning that each plant contains both male and female flowers. The male flowers have four stamens with pale yellow anthers, and the female flowers have a pistil with a feathery stigma. The fruit is a small achene with a single oil-rich seed.

Habitat and distribution

Urtica urens It is a nitrophilous species that thrives in environments abundant with animal droppings, decomposing organic matter, and human waste. Its presence is historically linked to the proximity of human settlements, stables, and orchards.

Although it prefers moist, nutrient-rich soils, the stinging nettle demonstrates a surprising ability to adapt to dry climates, especially in Mediterranean areas. It can be found from sea level to mountainous areas, thriving even at altitudes above 1.500 meters. It is common in cultivated fields, roadsides, gardens, orchards, and areas altered by humans.

Its distribution is multi-regional, being common in much of Europe and extending to western Asia, North America and regions of South America.

Taxonomy and Differentiation with Other Species

Urticaria It belongs to the genus Urtica, which includes other relevant species such as Urtica Membracea and Urtica dioica (great stinging nettle). In fact, it is common to find the lesser stinging nettle associated with the dead nettle (Embrace Lamium), a plant that, despite its similar appearance, lacks stinging hairs.

The main differences between Urtica urens and Urtica dioica are:

• High jump: Urtica urens is generally smaller (up to 60 cm) compared to the larger one, which can exceed one and a half meters.
• Lifecycle: Urtica urens is annual; Urtica dioica is perennial.
• Reproductive structureThe smaller one is monoecious, while the larger one is usually dioecious.
• Stinging capacityAlthough both have irritating trichomes, the stinging nettle produces more intense effects on contact.

Chemical Composition and Nutritional Properties

Urtica urens has a rich and varied composition, making it exceptionally useful both culinary and medicinally. Among its most important active ingredients are:

• Vitamins: A, C, K and several of group B, especially in young leaves.
• Minerals: Iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese and silica.
• Organic acids: Formic, acetic, caffeic, chlorogenic and gallic acid.
• Other compounds: Flavonoids (antioxidants and anti-inflammatories), beta-carotene, mucilages, tannins and chlorophyll.
• Urticating substances: Histamine, acetylcholine and serotonin present in the trichomes.

These components give it a marked remineralizing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic effect. Its high chlorophyll content also makes it an excellent blood purifier and metabolism booster.

Traditional and Modern Uses of Urtica urens

The stinging nettle has been used since ancient times by different cultures for a wide range of purposes, ranging from medicinal and nutritional uses to gardening and industrial uses.

Medicinal Applications

• diuretic power: Promotes the elimination of fluids and combats retention.
• Remedy for urinary tract conditions: Helps in cases of mild infections and discomfort in the urinary tract.
• anti-inflammatory action: Relieves joint and muscle pain, especially in rheumatism and arthritis.
• Metabolic regulator: Due to its richness in minerals, it is used in states of mineral deficiency and to strengthen hair and nails.
• Treatment of skin diseases: Used in poultices for psoriasis, minor burns, eczema and superficial wounds.
• Detoxifying: Due to its purifying action, it is recommended in liver and kidney cleansing diets.
• Control of minor bleeding: Its tannins and flavonoids give it hemostatic properties.

In folk medicine, decoctions and infusions of young leaves have been used in baths, compresses, or for internal consumption after cooking, which neutralizes the stinging effect of the plant.

Food Uses

The lesser nettle It is a valuable source of nutrients for vegetarian and vegan diets, thanks to its concentration of minerals and vitamins. Traditionally, it has been consumed:

• In soups, creams and stews, where it replaces spinach or other green leaves.
• In omelets and scrambled eggs after boiling or scalding (heat eliminates the stinging power).
• As a complement to salads (always after heat treatment or drying).

The seeds, as with Urtica dioica, can be incorporated into breads and baked goods, providing healthy oils and vegetable proteins.

Applications in Agriculture and Gardening

Urtica urens is a versatile resource in organic farming and sustainable gardening. Its uses include:

• Making nettle slurry: A fermented extract used as a liquid fertilizer, insecticide and plant growth stimulant.
• Phytosanitary preparations: Its maceration is effective in combating fungi (mildew, powdery mildew) and pests (aphids, mites).
• Compost activator: Promotes the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in composting.
• Natural barrier against pests: Planted at the edge of orchards, it helps control insects and promote biodiversity.

Industrial and Traditional Uses

• Obtaining textile fibersHistorically, its stems have been used to weave ropes, nets and strong fabrics.
• Natural dyes: Chlorophyll and other pigments from the stinging nettle are used to dye fabrics.
• Industrial chlorophyll production: Used in food and pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.

How to Grow Urtica urens: A Practical Guide

Optimal Growing Conditions

• Luz: Prefers sunny or semi-shaded locations, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight in very hot climates.
• Temperature: It tolerates temperatures well from 10 to 25ºC and can withstand light frost.
• Land: Nutrient-rich, deep, and fresh. A slightly acidic or neutral pH is ideal.
• Irrigation: Maintain constant humidity, avoiding puddles that could rot the roots.

Sowing and Propagation

1. By seedsIt is recommended to sow in late winter or spring, once the risk of frost has passed. Scatter the seeds superficially over the substrate and cover lightly. Germination occurs in 7-14 days at moderate temperatures.
2. By division: It is possible in developed specimens, separating young shoots together with the root.

It is essential to leave a minimum space of 20 to 30 cm between plants to ensure optimal development and avoid competition for light and nutrients.

Management and Care

• Fertilization: A periodic addition of compost or humus tea promotes green leaves and vigorous growth.
• Pruning: It is advisable to remove dry leaves and limit expansion to avoid invasive behavior, especially in diversified orchards.
• Pest controlDespite its resistance, stinging nettle can be affected by aphids, snails, and fungi, although rarely. Using garlic infusions, potassium soap, or neem oil can be helpful as a preventative measure.
• Invasion preventionIn small gardens, cultivation in pots or delimited flowerbeds is recommended to avoid uncontrolled dispersion.

Collection and Conservation

Harvesting should ideally be done in spring and early summer, when the leaves are young and tender, as they have the best flavor and a higher concentration of nutrients. The use of gloves and long sleeves during handling to avoid skin irritation.

The plant can be kept fresh in the refrigerator for several days, although air-drying in dark, well-ventilated areas is the preferred method for long-term storage. The dried leaves can be used in infusions, medicinal preparations, and in cooking.

Preparation and Use of Nettle Slurry

El nettle slurry It is one of the most valued natural preparations in organic farming. It acts as a liquid fertilizer, plant growth enhancer, and multipurpose pesticide.

1. Initial macerationPlace 100 grams of fresh leaves and stems per liter of water (preferably rainwater or dechlorinated water) in a plastic or glass container, protected from light and heat. Stir daily for 5 minutes. The maceration phase lasts between 12 hours and 3 days, and the diluted filtered liquid (1 part slurry, 15 parts water) can be used as a fungicide or pest repellent.
2. FermentaciónBetween 10 and 15 days, the slurry begins to release bubbles and its odor intensifies. The filtered product can be applied as a liquid fertilizer, diluted 1 in 10, and as an insecticide (1 in 15).
3. Mature manureAfter 15 days, the slurry reaches its full potential. Use filtered and always diluted slurry to water plants or enrich compost. Do not store for more than three months.

Practical Tips and Curiosities

• Safe drivingAlways handle with gloves; after cooking or drying, the stinging hairs lose their effect.
• Avoid toxicityAlthough it is not toxic if handled properly, consumption of raw nettle is not recommended due to its irritating properties.
• Ecological compatibilityBy attracting pollinating insects and natural pest predators, stinging nettle promotes biodiversity in the garden.
• Fibers and fabricsThe stems have been used to make ropes, nets and strong fabrics, especially in times of cotton or linen shortages.
• Popular knowledgeIn many cultures, nettle has been used for therapeutic whipping (urtication) in the treatment of rheumatic ailments and to stimulate circulation.
• Use in compost: The solid remains after obtaining slurry are excellent activators of domestic compost.

Frequently Asked Questions about Growing and Using Urtica urens

• Is stinging nettle invasive? Its rapid spread makes it potentially invasive in nitrogen-rich soils. Control through pruning and potting is recommended if its spread is desired.
• Is it child and pet friendly? Direct contact should be avoided due to its stinging effect. Once processed, it poses no risks and is suitable for preparing mineral-rich foods for the whole family.
• Can I use nettle slurry on any type of plant? Yes, although it is advisable to perform a prior test on highly sensitive species to avoid overfertilization.
• Is there any ornamental use? Although not common, it can be used in wild or low-maintenance gardens thanks to its hardiness and ecological benefits.

Ecological Importance and Biodiversity

Urtica urens plays an essential role as shelter and food source for numerous beneficial insects, including pollinators (butterflies, bees) and predators of agricultural pests (ladybugs, lacewings). Furthermore, their presence contributes to a better ecological balance and promotes the overall health of coexisting crops.

The use of fertilizers such as slurry and the sowing of nettles on orchard margins in organic farming serves the purpose of reducing dependence on chemicals and promoting more environmentally friendly production.

Myths and Cultural Curiosities

• In the Middle Ages, nettle leaves were used to make fabrics and natural dyes.
• In some cultures, the nettle is a symbol of protection and vital energy, and there is even a tradition of carrying a sprig of nettle around to attract courage and boldness.
• There are popular legends that claim that if you urinate continuously in the same area, nettles will grow due to the nitrogen supply.
• In ancient times, nettle was used in "therapeutic urtications" to stimulate blood circulation and combat lumbago.
• Nettle has also been used as a refreshing ingredient in traditional drinks in some South American regions.

Recommended Materials and Tools for Cultivation and Use

• Thick gardening gloves for handling fresh plants.
• Small shovel and pruning shears for cultivation and harvesting.
• Plastic or glass containers for making slurry and macerates.
• Compost or organic fertilizer to nourish the soil.
• Sprayer for applying extracts.

Precautions for Use and Contraindications

• Avoid eating raw nettles. Always cook, dry, or blanch them before eating.
• Its medicinal use without medical supervision is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women or people with kidney failure.
• Direct contact can cause severe skin irritation; protect with gloves whenever possible.
• In case of accidental contact and development of a skin reaction, wash with plenty of water and apply soothing remedies such as aloe vera or bite ointments.